Who Should I Start? Chuba Hubbard or Rico Dowdle

Wednesday, October 15, 2:50 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (calf) returned to practice Wednesday after missing the past two games. During his absence, Rico Dowdle has impressed, which could impact the backfield rotation moving forward. Earlier in the season, Hubbard held a near two-to-one edge in snaps over Dowdle, but that split may narrow as the coaching staff rewards Dowdle's recent success. While Hubbard's return will cut into Dowdle's fantasy value, both backs could remain involved against a vulnerable Jets run defense that ranks 23rd in the league, allowing 130 rushing yards per game. Fantasy managers should monitor practice reports this week to see how Carolina plans to divide touches ahead of Sunday's matchup.

Tuesday, October 14, 12:01 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle has been the talk of the NFL lately, recording 373 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns on 60 total touches across his last two games played. Dowdle has been filling in for Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (calf), who could make his return in Week 7 against the New York Jets. However, Panthers head coach Dave Canales has been non-committal about whether Hubbard will remain the starter once he returns. While Hubbard will certainly get his touches, it's hard to imagine that Carolina would completely remove Dowdle from the game plan, given what he has done over the last two weeks. If there are any leagues where Dowdle remains available, he needs to be rostered in all fantasy formats and could be a borderline must-start running back in Week 7, even if Hubbard returns to the lineup.